Strayhorn Jr.

High & High School

Student Handbook 2011-2012

TATE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT CALENDAR 2011-2012

August September 1-2 3 2 5 14 19-22 3-7 7 10 18 9 10 18 21-25 5-8 13-15 16 19-30 31-1 2 3 10 16 9 17 20 1 6-9 14-16 21 22 26-29 5 6 9 10 12 1-4 1 8-10 16-17 18 21-23 Staff Development (No students) 1st Day of Class for Students Progress Reports (60% Day for Students Staff Development) Labor Day Holiday SATP English II Writing Retest SATP Retest 9-weeks Test 60% Day for Students Staff Development Fall Break Day Report Cards SATP English II Writing Retest Progress Reports 60% Day for Students Staff Development Thanksgiving Holiday SATP Retest Semester Exams Semester Exams 60% Day for students Staff Development Christmas Holidays Christmas Holidays Staff Development (No Students) School Resumes for Students Report Cards King Holiday Progress Reports 60% Day for Students Staff Development Presidents Day Holiday Grades 4/7 Writing Test 9 Weeks Test Spring Holidays English II Writing Primary Administration Report Cards SATP Retest Last Opportunity for Seniors 60% Day for students Staff Development Good Friday Holiday Good Monday Holiday Staff Development (No Students) Progress Reports SATP Primary Administration Grades 5/8 Science Test MCT2 Final Exams Final Exams 60% Day for Students Professional Development

October

November

December

January

February

March

April

May

MS-CPAS April 9-27 ELL Testing April 2-30 Days missed due to inclement weather will be made up as follows: 1st day Feb. 20 2nd -4th days April 6, 9-10 5th-9th days March 12-16

DISTRICT VISION/MISSION STATEMENT

The VISION of the Tate County School District is students will meet or exceed AYP standards and all schools will show growth and achieve successful or higher rating. The MISSION of the Tate County School District is to provide a program of studies that adequately prepares the student for future educational or training opportunities necessary to meet the demands of a changing workplace within a global economy.

DISTRICT LEADERSHIP TEAM

INTERIM CONSERVATOR James Malone

TATE COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD Tommy Bailey, President (District III) Cynthia Brewer, Vice President (District I) Richard Todd, Secretary (District V) Eddie Pitts (District II) Arthur Avant (District IV) John Lamar (Board Attorney) CENTRAL OFFICE ADMINISTRATORS Juanita Jamison (Deputy Superintendent) Jeannie Sprayberry (Special Education Director) Alee Dixon (Curriculum Director) Jennifer Rhodes (Business Manager) Amanda Meredith (Food Service Director) Jermoe Martin (Transportation Director) Pansy Ray (MSIS Coordinator) CENTRAL OFFICE STAFF Melissa Wallace (Superintendents Secretary/Accounts Payable/Payroll Clerk) Takeya Williams (Special Education Secretary) Vernester Phillips (Receptionist) Calandra Bobo (Federal Programs Secretary) Larry Mardis (Psychologist) Brandon Goodwin (Computer Technology)

This handbook is strictly a guideline of proper procedures and conduct; furthermore, the administration has the right to make the final decision on any matter to ensure compliance and quality educational services.

SCHOOL INFORMATION EAST TATE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STRAYHORN HIGH SCHOOL Address: 6832 East Tate Road Address: 86 Mustang Dr Coldwater, MS 38618 Sarah, MS 38665 Phone: 662-562-4688 Phone: 662-562-9246 Fax: 662-560-0881 Fax: 662-562-9249 Principal: Timeka Pugh Principal: John Shows Assistant Principal: Amy Williams Assistant Principal: Melody Carter Counselor: Amy Patterson Counselor: Karmara Hawkins INDEPENDENCE HIGH SCHOOL Address: 3184 Hwy. 305 Coldwater, MS 38618 Phone: 662-233-4691 Fax: 662-233-2214 Principal: David Williams Assistant Principal: Hurdell Counselor: Gale Crockett STRAYHORN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Address: 3042 Hwy 4 W Sarah, MS 38665 Phone: 662-562-8637 Fax: 662-562-8631 Principal: Jim Bolen COLDWATER ATTENDANCE CENTER: Pre KK Address: 3184 Hwy. 305 Coldwater, MS 38618 Phone: 662-622-5511 662-622-0397 Fax: 662-622-7061 662-622-0938 Principal: Willie Brandon, Jr. Counselor: Angela Hodges COLDWATER ATTENDANCE CENTER Address: 3184 Hwy. 305 Coldwater, MS 38618 Phone: 662-622-5511 662-622-0397 Fax: 662-622-7061 662-622-0938 Principal: Willie Brandon, Jr. Counselor: Angela Hodges

BELL SCHEDULE First Period Second Period BREAK Third Period Fourth Period Fifth Period Sixth Period Seventh Period 7:45 8:49 8:52 9:42 9:42 9:59 10:03 10:52 10:55 12:25 12:28 1:19 1:22 2:14 2:17 3:10 (Vo Tech Pick Up 7:35) (Vo Tech Pick Up 9:42) (Lunch Period) (Vo-Tech Pick Up 1:15)

Table of Contents Academic Policies Grading Exams and Exemptions Honor Roll Homework Make-up Work Progress Reports Report Cards Course Offerings Dual Enrollment Promotion and Retention Graduation Requirements Class Ranking and Honor Graduates Class Scheduling Correspondence Courses Field Trips Homebound Program Home school Attendance Policies Absences and Excessive Absences Leaving School Tardiness Safety Procedures Asbestos Bullying and Harassment First Aid Emergency Operations Building Evacuation Plan Disciplinary Code Disciplinary Actions Demerit System Merit System Cheating Corporal Punishment Electronic Devices 10 11 11 12 12 12
1 Optional Learning Center (OLC)

12 12 12-13 13 13 13-14 14 14 14-15 15 15 15 16 16 16 16 16 16-17 17 17 17-18 18-19 20-21 21 21 21

2 2 2 2 2-3 3 3 3-4 4 5 5 5-6 6 6 7 7 7 7-8 8 8 8 9 9 10 10

Physical, Verbal, or Electronic Abuse Possession of Weapons School Bus Safety School Property Search and Seizure Smoking and Other Uses of Tobacco Student Suspension General Information Dress Code Dress Code Enforcement Automobiles Food Services Guidance Services Married or Pregnant Students School Phones Textbooks Immunization and Vaccination Residence Verification School Dances Title I Mustang Club Admission Procedures Family Educational Rights Act and Privacy Act Transfer Students Transfer and Withdrawal Students Visitors on Campus

Anti-Discrimination Policy 18

GRADING POLICY FOR GRADES 4-12 (TCSD Board Policy IHA)

1. (A minimum of 4 major tests (chapter or unit tests) and 1 nine-week test should be given in each academic course during each of the four nine-week grading periods. The nine-week test should be recorded as 2 major test grades for the grading period. A minimum of 10 daily grades (including daily tests, class participation, homework, etc.) should be recorded during the grading period. A students grade for the nine-week period would be calculated as follows: Determine the MAJOR TEST AVERAGE and the DAILY AVERAGE by totaling each category and dividing by the number of grades in the specific category. Add the MAJOR TEST AVERAGE twice along with the DAILY AVERAGE once and divide by three to arrive at the students NINE-WEEK AVERAGE. For example: Johns MAJOR TEST AVERAGE is 88 and his DAILY AVERAGE is 92. Add 88 twice plus 92 once and divide by 3. His nine-week grade would be 89, The 9 Weeks test for grades K-8 will cover material for just the current 9 weeks. Grades 9th 12th 9 weeks test will cover material from the beginning of the school year. Calculation of the students SEMESTER AVERAGE is as follows: a. Add the 1st 9-weeks grade to the 2nd 9 weeks grade and divide by 2. b. In this calculation each 9 weeks average counts 50% of the semester average. Calculation of the students YEARLY AVERAGE is simply the average of his/her semester averages. All grades are to be recorded in the grade book along with documentation as to the type of the evaluation the grade represents. All graded written work should be returned to students within three days for parental viewing. Exceptions to this procedure are book reports, term papers, and major written projects. One grade is recorded in the area of Language Arts at the fourth, fifth, and sixth grade level. This one grade should include proper student evaluation in each area comprising Language Arts. Teachers MUST present his/her principal a written plan documenting the method utilized to arrive at a NINE WEEK grade in the area of Language Arts. The principal MUST approve this plan. Any modifications to this policy must in writing and approved by the school principal

2. 3.

4. 5.

6.

7.

EXAMINATIONS AND EXEMPTIONS (TCSD Board Policy IHA)

Exemptions are allowed ONLY for 7th 12th grade students. Student may be exempted only from year courses 2nd 9 Weeks test and full year courses 4th 9 weeks test. A student can get exempt: If the student has an average of 80 or better with perfect attendance, and a discipline record within the guidelines established by the principal. If the student has an average of 85 or better, 5 days or less absent, and a discipline record within the guidelines established by the principal. If the student has an average of 90 or better, 10 days or less absent, and a discipline record within the guidelines established by the principal.

HONOR ROLL
The following requirements must be met for students to make honor roll: Principals list All grades 90 and above Teachers list All grades 80-89

HOMEWORK
The Tate County School District recognizes the value of purposeful, well-planned, and properly motivated home assignments that are (1) appropriate to the grade level, age, and abilities of the student; (2) designed to stimulate initiative and independence or to reinforce and enrich classroom instruction; (3) in complete accord with the goals established for the development of the school curriculum; (4) carefully planned so that home assignments are not so lengthy as to be self-defeating nor so complicated as to require assistance or resource materials not available to the student; and (5) an extension of class work that has already been introduced. As in the assignment of in-school work, homework assignments must be left to the sound professional judgment of the teacher, who will be expected to interpret the needs and assess the abilities and interests of each student.

MAKE-UP WORK
Classroom Tests Students who miss tests on days during excused absences will be allowed to make up the tests. Make-up tests are not given during regular class time so as not to cause the student to miss on-going instruction. The student should check with his/her teacher to get the exact time for make-up tests. When a student misses a test because of truancy, out-of-school suspension, or for other unexcused absences, he will be allowed to take a make-up test on the day the student returns.

Nine-Week, Semester, or Final Exams Students who are absent for a nine-weeks exam, a semester exam, or a final exam will be allowed to take the exams whether their absence was ruled excused or unexcused. The student will receive the grade earned on the exam. The teacher and principal will arrange a time for the student to make-up the exam. Homework and Daily Work Students must take the initiative to consult with each teacher about make-up work. Principals may specify a longer period of make-up time for students who experience an extended period of excused absences. Students makeup work will be a two days to make up for a day missed for all work and tests missed.

PROGRESS REPORTS
At the mid-point of each nine-week grading period progress reports will be sent home. Teachers may require that these progress reports be signed by a parent/guardian and returned to school. Parents who wish to receive progress reports more frequently may contact the student's counselor; furthermore, parents may request in writing that progress reports be mailed if a self addressed stamped envelope is provided.

REPORT CARDS (TCSD Board Policy IHA)

Report cards are issued on dates as listed on the Tate County School District Calendar. Numeric grades are recorded on report cards. The grade ranges used in Tate County Schools are as follows: 90- 100 = A 80- 89 = B 70- 79 = C 65- 69 = D Below 65 = F

COURSE OFFERINGS GRADES 9-12 (course offerings may vary yearly dependent on numbers)
Course Ag Power and Equip I Ag Power and Equip II AEST I AEST II Agriscience I Agriscience II Agriscience, Introduction Visual Arts I Visual Arts IV Band General Music Intro to Theatre Arts Comprehensive Health Physical Education Drug Ed/Safety Ed Accounting I Accounting II Computation in Business Communication in Business Keyboarding Personal Finance Word Processing I Computer Applications Desktop Publishing English I English II English III English IV Mississippi Writers Creative Writing Speech Carnegie Unit Value 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Offered At IND IND IND IND CHS and SHS CHS and SHS CHS and SHS All All IND and CHS IND and CHS IND All All CHS All All IND and SHS SHS All All IND All IND All All All All CHS IND and CHS IND

Journalism Child Development Family Dynamics Nutrition and Wellness Personal Development Spanish I Spanish II Pre-Algebra Algebra I Geometry Algebra II Advanced Algebra Trigonometry Transitions to Algebra Pre-Calculus Science Skills Biology I A&P Chemistry Physics Economics Mississippi Studies U. S. Government U. S. History World Geography World History Technology Discovery JMG (Jobs for MS Graduates) Allied Health Cluster I Allied Health Cluster II Auto Mechanics I Auto Mechanics II Business and Computer Technology I Business and Computer Technology II Carpentry I Carpentry II Marketing I Marketing II Technology Applications I Technology Applications II

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2

All IND and CHS All IND and CHS IND and CHS All All All All All All All All All SHS All All All All All All All All All All All All CHS All All All All All All All All All All All All

Advanced Placement Offerings (effective with the 2007-2008 school year each high school offers at least one advanced placement course in each of the four major content areas; these courses are available through the Virtual School and/or the Interactive Video Network) Coldwater High School and Strayhorn High School may offer some additional courses through Mississippis Interactive Video Network. This network is not available at Independence High School. All three high schools can make additional courses available to students through Mississippis Virtual School option. Counselors at each school can provide more information relative to the Virtual School option.

DUAL ENROLLMENT
Students attending a Tate County High School can be enrolled in high school coursework at the same time he/she is enrolled in coursework at a community or senior college. Qualifications for dual enrollment are outlined in a publication available in the counselors office at each high school. This dual enrollment agreement was approved by the Mississippi Board of Education, the Board for Community Colleges and the Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning. STUDENTS MUST MEET THE REQUIREMENTS AS OUTLINED IN THIS PUBLICATION AND BE RECOMMENDED BY THE HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL AND COUNSELOR.

PROMOTION AND RETENTION (TCSD Board Policy IHE)

(1) The classification of 12th grade high school students is based on the accumulation of Carnegie units. Classification as a 12th grader requires 15 units and passing all SATP test. (2) The classification of high school students (entering 2008-2009 and beyond) is based on the accumulation of Carnegie units. Classification as a 10th grader requires 6 units, classification as an 11th grader requires 12 units, and classification as a 12th grader requires 18 units. (3) Students shall not be retained for extra-curricular purposes (4) Each principal shall ensure that the school is appropriately disseminating information to the parents This information is to include data such as student progress and minimum skills required before assignment can be made to the next grade or course level. (5) Parents must be notified of deficiencies in academic progress no later than the middle of each grading period. (6) Parents must receive written notification at the end of the second nine weeks if there is any doubt about a student progressing to the next grade or course level. Additionally, the parents of any student who is going to be retained should receive notice before final report cards are issued.

Kindergarten students may be retained the following year should they fail to master the required core skills in reading and mathematics. Retention will be made upon the recommendation of the teacher and approval of the principal. In order to be promoted from one grade level to the next in grades 1, 2, and 3, a student, must receive a passing yearly average in both mathematics and reading. In order to be promoted from one grade level to the next in grades 4-6, a student must receive a passing yearly average in math, language arts (English and reading), and science or social studies.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS (TCSD Board Policy IHF)

(1) Each student MUST earn a passing score on state-mandated high school exit exams as determined by State policy. This includes Subject Area Test in English II, Biology I, Algebra I, and U.S. History. (2) Students who plan to enroll DIRECTLY after high school graduation into one of the eight public universities in Mississippi must complete the IHL (Institutions of Higher Learning) curriculum. IHL requirements can be met by earning credits in the following areas: Math units must include Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II Science units MUST include 2 lab-based units One unit is required in a foreign language or world geography One additional unit in an advanced math or science course is required. STUDENTS ARE NOT ALLOWED TO PARTICIPATE IN GRADUATION EXERCISES UNLESS GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS HAVE BEEN MET. REFER TO THE FOLLOWING GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS AS IT PERTAINS TO EACH STUDENTS ENTERING YEAR OF HIGH SCHOOL.

CLASS RANKING/HONOR GRADUATES (Grades 9-12) (TCSD Board Policy IHF-1)

Class ranking is maintained by the school counselor and semester averages are used for determining this rank. Units earned in physical education, band, drivers education, correspondence courses, and home school are NOT included in the class ranking calculation. The final class Ranking is calculated at the end of the first semester of the students final year in high school. The semester average used in this calculation for the following courses will be weighted per semester by multiplying the average by 1.05. Advanced placement courses All foreign language courses Chemistry Physics Math classes above algebra II

The number one ranked student as a result of this calculation will be recognized as the Valedictorian and the number two ranked student will be recognized as the Salutatorian. A student MUST complete at least the first semester of his/her final year in high school at the graduating school to qualify for Valedictorian or Salutatorian.

Students who earn an overall high school average of 87 or above will graduate with Honors and those who earn a 93 or higher high school average will graduate with Special Honors. Only traditional diploma students will be ranked or recognized as honor graduates.

SCHEDULING OF SUBJECTS OR CLASSES

The policies listed below will be followed by students, parents, and counselors in setting up the students' programs:
Students will be permitted to receive a maximum of 7 units of credit during the regular school year toward graduation. A maximum of one (1) unit (approved by the school principal) may be earned during one (1) summer session. A student and his/her parent/guardian are required to meet individually on a yearly basis with a guidance counselor or advisor to set up his/her program of studies and sign the scheduling form. It is the intent of the Tate County School District that students be assisted at the beginning of ninth grade in making choices that best meet the student's educational goals. This will be accomplished through focused counseling and by placing a student in the program considered most appropriate for him/her, with parents being given an opportunity to request adjustments in the scheduling

Only juniors and seniors are allowed work permits. All other students will be scheduled for 7 periods a day. The classes of concern here are Algebra I, Biology I, and English II. Students entering the ninth grade should be placed in high school classes as determined by their results in the eighth grade. Algebra I To be eligible to be placed in Algebra I during the ninth grade a student must: Score proficient or above in eighth grade Pre-Algebra Pass Pre-Algebra with a numerical grade of 84 or above If low proficient and/or low numerical grade, the student may be placed in Algebra I on probation for the first nine weeks of grade nine Any student on probation must score a minimum of 84 on report card in Algebra I for first nine weeks

Students not meeting requirements for Algebra I Student that does not score the minimum grade at the end of the first nine weeks will be placed in Transitions to Algebra the second nine weeks Students scoring basic or minimum in eighth grade MCT2 math will be placed in Transitions to Algebra Students scoring in the minimum or basic range on MCT2 Pre-Algebra will be placed in a Compensatory Math pending availability and scheduling Biology I Score proficient or above in eighth grade science MCT2 Pass eighth grade science with a numerical grade of 84 or above If low proficient and/or low numerical grade, the student will be placed in Biology I on probation for the first nine weeks of grade nine Any student on probation must score a minimum of 84 on report card in Biology I for the first nine weeks

Students not meeting requirements for Biology I Student that does not score the minimum grade at the end of the first nine weeks will be placed in Science Skills and Reasoning Students scoring basic or minimum in eighth grade science MCT2 will be placed in Science Skills and Reasoning English I and English II Students scoring in the minimum or basic range in eighth grade English will be placed in Compensatory English if available and scheduling is possible Students with a numerical grade of 84 or below in eighth grade English may be placed in Compensatory English.

Some discretion will be left to the school concerning the placement of students in SATP classes.

CORRESPONDENCE COURSES
Only one Carnegie unit may be earned and applied toward the units required for graduation. ALL CORRESPONDENCE COUSES MUST BE APPROVED BY THE HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL AND COUNSELOR PRIOR TO ENROLLMENT.

FIELD TRIPS

As part of the educational service of the school, students may be taken on field trips. Such trips are made only with the permission of the childs parent. When such trips are being planned, permission slips will be sent home to be signed by the parent. All field trips must be approved by the district administration and must be supervised by regular classroom teachers. No field trip will be approved for the weeks of term tests, and all field trips must be concluded ten (10) days prior to the week of term examinations. Due to the finical crisis of the school district, Tate County School District will not be allowed to pay for field trips.

HOMEBOUND PROGRAM

The Homebound Program is an instructional program for students who for various reasons are unable to attend regular academic instruction at a specific school. The districts Special Education Coordinator in cooperation with the instructional staff will determine the student's eligibility for homebound services.

HOME SCHOOLED CHILDREN (TCSD Board Policy JBC)

All students seeking to transfer from any non accredited school, public or private, to Tate County School District shall be required to take a standardized test to determine the grade and class to which the pupil shall be assigned at the time of pupil transfer. The administrative head of the school shall administer the test or tests to such pupil or pupils as shall apply for transfer to Tate County School District. Such test or tests shall be administered within ten days after the filing of each such application for transfer. No transfer of a pupil shall be affected until the test has been given and the pupil is assigned to the grade and class for which the test shows he is best suited. No pupil shall be assigned to a grade and class more than three (3) grades above or below the grade or class that the pupil would have been assigned to had the pupil remained in the school from which the transfer is being made. Pending the administration of the test herein provided for and its grading and an assignment based thereon the superintendent of Tate County School District or the attendance center principal to which the pupil seeks admission may assign the pupil temporarily to a grade and class comparable to that in which the pupil would have been had the pupil continued in the school from which the transfer was being made. If any student is transferred or reassigned within Tate County School District by an order of the board of trustees of this school district as designated by law of the State of Mississippi and not at his own request, the requirement of that pupils taking the standardized test shall be waived. Likewise, if a pupil shall transfer from one school district to another school district in the manner provided and required by the laws of the State of Mississippi, the requirement of such pupil taking the standardized test shall be waived. ' 37-15-33

ABSENCES and EXCESSIVE ABSENCES (TCSD Board Policy JBD)

Official An official absence is when a student is representing the school in some official capacity. This classification includes when students are a part of a school- related field trip or other educational activity. Excused An excused absence is one which results from personal illness, death or serious illness in the family, observances of religious holidays of a students own faith, or special circumstances such as court summons, family emergencies, weather extremes, which require immediate action and that the school principal deems necessary. Absences, other than those listed above should be cleared through the principals office before the student is absent. Senior students may miss up to two days during the school year to interview for scholarships and take placement or entrance exams if documentation is provided in advance of the absence. The student must submit a written excuse to the proper school official by 8:30 a. m. on the day the student returns to school; Excuses received beyond this date are considered "unexcused" and will be reported as such unless there is just cause

and approval by the principal. Only five (5) parent notes for days missed are allowed during a school semester. The note should include: the date(s), the specific reason for the absence, and students name.
Repeated absences may require a medical excuse. Students may have only 5 excused absences per semester. A medical doctors written excuse that covers more than one day consecutively will be considered 1 excused absence. Any absences more than 5 excused will be considered unexcused. Excuses may include doctors excuses, parent notes, funeral excuses, or arrangements made in advance with the principal. Excuses must be brought to school following the absence. Excuses will not be taken after that date. If a student has a chronic illness (ex. diabetes, asthma, cancer, multiple sclerosis etc.) the parents must make the school aware of the situation and an individual student plan will be developed to address excessive absences for that student. Verification must be provided in writing from a medical doctor. Unexcused An unexcused absence will be recorded if the student does not bring an acceptable note from home on his return to school. The Tate County School District follows the Mississippi Compulsory School Attendance Law in reporting unexcused absences to the County Attendance Officer and the Department of Human Services. When a student accumulates five (5) unexcused absences, the county attendance officer will be notified

Irregular attendance will be monitored by school officials and irregular attendance reports will be referred to the district attendance officer for action by the Youth Court. High Schools (9-12): The limit of absences will be five parental excused absences per semester and twenty absences per class period for classes which meet for the entire school year. Absences will be recorded by periods; each class stands alone. Official absences, days missed due to suspension, or health or legal quarantine will not count against the total number of absences allotted for a student. Notification to Parents/ Guardians of Excessive Absences The school attendance clerk will notify parents/ guardians of students by telephone or letter when the student has missed one half the allotted days as described above and when the student has missed the total allotted days. When a students absences exceed the allotted number of total absences, the attendance clerk will notify the parent/guardian by letter. Appeal Procedure An appeal may be made for students who have missed more than the allotted number of total days/periods. The following steps must be followed. Within five school days after receiving notification that the student has exceeded the allotted number of absences, the parent/guardian must submit a letter requesting a policy waiver to the principal. Attached to this letter should be copies of documentation verifying the reason(s) for the absences. The principal will decide to approve or disapprove the request and will notify the parent/guardian in writing of the decision. At the principals discretion, a teacher/administrator committee may review each case and make a recommendation to the principal. Requests not approved by the principal may be appealed by the parent/guardian to the Superintendent for action by the Tate County School Board.

LEAVING SCHOOL (TCSD Board Policy JGFC)

Parents may check their children out of school only if the children are sick, a family emergency occurs or for a medical appointment which cannot be made at an after school time. Check-out policy - When a student becomes ill or an emergency arises during the regular school which may warrant early dismissal, the student must report to the principals office. Before the student will be allowed to leave school, the student's parent or legal guardian must be contacted by telephone. Parent phone call and notes are required for checkout. The school administration will reserve the option to release a student from school if the student's parents cannot be contacted. A student may be released for a physician's appointment, dental appointment, or other just reason when the parent, legal guardian, or person authorized by the parent comes to the school and signs the student out or sends a note to the pupil accounting office stating the reason for check-out. This note must include the check-out time and a telephone number where the parent can be contacted and should be on file no later than 8:00 a.m. on the day of check-out. If the note cannot be verified, the school reserves the right to refuse release of the student. Classes missed due to check-outs count as absences and will be treated as excused or unexcused according to the guidelines established earlier in this handbook. If a checkout is excused, the student is responsible for making up class work that is missed during the time that he/she is signed out of school. Athletes who have finished playing their particular sport may not check out just because their particular sport is over nor are they able to get a work permit to keep from attending that class period. If a student athlete checks out more than once a week on average the student will not receive credit for that class. SATP students cannot check out or have early dismissal if the students have not passed all four SATP test. No student will be allowed to check out after 2:45.

TARDIES
Any student who is tardy to school must check-in with the office prior to being admitted to class. Any tardy will result in demerit(s).

ASBESTOS
The Tate County School District completed the inspection and assessment of the school district property for asbestos and submitted the management plan to the State Department of Education in 1988. The submission of this plan assures that the district is in compliance with the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act of 1986. The EPA requires us to perform re-inspections of asbestos material every 3 years. A certified management plan reviews the results of re-inspection and recommends any action we should take to safely manage asbestos material in our buildings.

The master plan and re-inspections are on file in each school administration office. Everyone is welcome to view these plans and test results during normal school hours. The asbestos program manager Wayne Moore is available to answer any questions you may have concerning any asbestos in our building Mr. Moore can be reached at 662-622-0229.

STUDENT COMPLAINTS OF BULLYING OR HARASSING BEHAVIOR (TCSD Board Policy JC)

Students and employees in the Tate County School District are protected from bullying or harassing behavior by other students or employees. It is the intent of the Tate County School Board and the Tate County School District administration to maintain an environment free from bullying and harassing behavior. This complaint procedure provides a process for filing, processing and resolving complaints of such conduct. Adherence to these procedures is mandatory. The failure of any person to follow these procedures will constitute a waiver of the right to pursue a complaint at any level, including review by the Tate County School Board. I. Definitions Bullying or harassing behavior is any pattern of gestures or written, electronic or verbal communications, or any physical act or any threatening communication, or any act reasonably perceived as being motivated by any actual or perceived differentiating characteristic that (a) places a student or school employee in actual and reasonable fear of harm to his or her person or damage to his or her property, or (b) creates or is certain to create a hostile environment by substantially interfering with or impairing a student's educational performance, opportunities or benefits. A "hostile environment" means that the victim subjectively views the conduct as bullying or harassing behavior and the conduct is objectively severe or pervasive enough that a reasonable person would agree that it is bullying or harassing behavior. Bullying or harassing behavior will not be condoned or tolerated when it takes place on school property, at any school-sponsored function, or on a school bus, or when it takes place off school property when such conduct, in the determination of the school superintendent or principal, renders the offending persons presence in the classroom a disruption to the educational environment of the school or a detriment to the best interest and welfare of the pupils and teacher of such class as a whole. II. Procedures for Processing a Complaint Any student, school employee or volunteer who feels he/she has been a victim of bullying or harassing behavior, or has witnessed or who has reliable information that a student, school employee or volunteer has been subject to bullying or harassing behavior shall report such conduct to a teacher, principal, counselor or other school official. The report shall be made promptly but no later than five (5) calendar days after the alleged act or acts occurred. The school official shall complete a complaint form which shall include the name of the reporting person, the specific nature and date of the misconduct, the names of the victim of the misconduct, the names of any witnesses and any other information that would assist in the investigation of the complaint. The report shall be given promptly to the principal or superintendent who shall institute an immediate investigation. Complaints against the principal shall be made to the superintendent and complaints against the superintendent shall be made to the Tate County School Board president. The complaint shall be investigated promptly. Parents will be notified of the nature of any complaint involving their student. The District official will arrange such meetings as may be necessary with all concerned parties within five (5) working days after initial receipt of the complaint by the Tate County School District. The parties will have an opportunity to submit evidence and a list of witnesses. All findings related to the complaint will be reduced to writing. The Tate County School District official conducting the investigation shall notify the victim and parents as appropriate when the investigation is completed and a decision regarding disciplinary action, as warranted, is determined. If the victim is not satisfied with the decision of the Tate County School District official, he/she may submit a written appeal to the superintendent. Such appeal shall be filed within ten (10) working days after receipt of the results of the initial decision. The superintendent will arrange such meetings with the victim and other affected parties as deemed necessary to discuss the appeal. The superintendent shall provide a written decision to the victims appeal within ten (10) working days. If the victim is not satisfied with the decision of the superintendent, a written appeal may be filed with the Tate County School Board. Such appeal shall be filed within ten (10) working days after receipt of the decision of the superintendent. The Tate County School Board shall, within twenty (20) working days, allow the victim and parents as appropriate to appear before the Tate County School Board to present reasons for dissatisfaction with the decision of the superintendent. The Tate County School Board shall provide a written decision within ten (10) working days following the victims appearance before the Tate County School Board.

FIRST AID First aid treatment may be obtained in the nurses office, but students must first get permission from the front deskexcept in the case of extreme emergencies.
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EMERGENCY OPERATIONS (TCSD Board Policy EBBA & EBBC)

School staff members faced with an emergency affecting the health and welfare of a student will exercise their discretion and judgment as to procedures for handling the emergency, following established policy and procedural guidelines as far as possible. In the event that a student's parent or guardian cannot be reached, the school officials will act to safeguard the student in a reasonable way. Schools are sometimes faced with emergencies that require the total cooperation of staff members and students. The Tate County School District has detailed plans for operating under such emergency conditions as fire, tornado, flood, severe weather, explosions, and other emergencies. Fire drills and other emergency preparedness measures are a regular part of each schools program. Detailed instructions for emergency operations will be outlined to all students at their respective schools. Students are expected to learn the procedures to be followed under emergency conditions and to cooperate fully with the supervising teacher, staff, and/or administrator during drills and/or the actual event of such an emergency. When a decision must be made to close or dismiss any school(s) within the Tate County School District, the superintendent or his/her designee will notify local radio and television stations. Parents/ Guardians and students should listen for announcements from these media outlets and/or contact the school district's homepage on the Internet.

BUILDING EVACUATION PLAN

The emergency signal for evacuation is Go Mustangs. Students and staff will move to assigned evacuation locations. Teachers will follow students out and stay with students. Teachers will call roll to determine if any students are missing. Teachers will report missing students to the principal. Unattached students will report to the nearest teacher. Teachers should not student additions and send this information to the principal. Secretarial staff will take enrollment cards and sign-out sheets for off-site student release. Rooms 105W, 106W, 107W, 108W, 109W, and 110WExit through the west door; go to back parking lot behind the practice field. Rooms 101W, 102W, 103W, and 104WExit through the south door; go to back parking lot behind the practice field. Rooms 105N, 108N, 109N, 111N, and 112NExit through the north door; go to the baseball field. Rooms 101N, 103N, and 201Exit through the front door; go to the baseball field. Rooms 202, 204, 207, and 208Exit through the east door; go to parking lot behind practice field. Evacuation Coordinators will check the following rooms to ensure evacuation has occurred: Jones101W, 102W, 103W, and 104W Underwood105W, 106W, 107W, 108W, 109W, and 110W Card108N, 109N, 111N, and 112N Collins101N, 103N, 105N, and 201 Skinner202, 204, 207, and 208

DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS

Each student, upon formal registration at the school, assumes an obligation to obey all rules and regulations made by properly constituted authorities to preserve faithfully all property of the school provided for ones education both in and out of the classroom, and to discharge ones duties as a student with diligence, fidelity and honor. Administrators and teachers shall hold students strictly accountable for disorderly conduct or misconduct at school, on the way to or from school, on parking lot, at school meeting, programs, junctions, and on school buses. The superintendent or principal may suspend any student from school for good causes. (Section 6282-24, Mississippi School Code 1942) The superintendent, principals and Vo-Tech director are authorized to institute appropriate disciplinary action including suspension, if warranted, of a student for disorderly conduct or misconduct. A student will be allowed to make statements in their own behalf before disciplinary measures are taken. Disorderly conduct or misconduct includes, but is not limited to, the following: SOME DISCIPLINARY OPTIONS ARE: 1. Administrative conference 7. Suspension 2. Corporal Punishment 8. Board Hearing 3. Break Detention 9. Parent Conference/Behavioral Contract 4. In-School Suspension 10. Optional Learning Center 5. Work Assignment 11. Expulsion 6. Saturday School

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DEMERIT SYSTEM

In order to ensure rules and regulations are consistently followed, Strayhorn School will use a standardized Demerit system for minor offenses. The following lists are not all-inclusive. Students may incur demerits for infractions of any rule or regulation not mentioned here. The following infractions will result in the student incurring one demerit: Tardiness Running in the hallways Dress code violations Chewing gum/eating in the classroom Unpreparedness Littering Graffiti The following infractions will result in the student incurring between one and three demerits: Public displays of affection Profanity Insubordination Disruptive behavior Disrespectful/rude behavior Horseplay Consequences: The following are possible repercussions for incurring demerit points. Other disciplinary action may be assessed at the discretion of the principal or his designee. Any student who incurs seven demerits will receive parental contact. Any student who incurs ten demerits will be referred to the office and a parent conference will be required before the student is allowed to return to school. Any student who incurs fifteen demerits will receive up to three days ISS or Saturday school or Corporal Punishment and a parent conference will be required. Any student who incurs twenty demerits will receive up to five days ISS or Saturday schools or any other disciplinary action determined by the principal and will no longer be able to participate in extra-curricular activities. A parent conference will also be required. Any student who incurs demerits beyond twenty in increments of five (e.g. 25, 30) will be referred to a disciplinary committee and will no longer be able to attend school functions. Other disciplinary action may be assessed at the discretion of the principal.

Severe violations will not fall under the demerit system. Immediate removal from the classroom setting and parent contact will occur. The penalty for such violations can include ISS, OSS, or alternate placement. These violations include but are not limited to: Extreme rudeness and/or disrespect to teachers and/or staff 2. Leaving campus without permission 3. Attempting to engage in sexual activity 4. Making a written or verbal proposition to engage in sexual activity 5. Trespassing; theft or vandalism 6. Threatening and/or directing profane language toward a teacher This list is in no way all-inclusive. 1. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. Possession of mace, pepper gas, or related items Sexual Assault Possession of or use of alcohol or other mood altering drugs not prescribed by a doctor Possession of a weapon Severely assaulting another student or teacher Any criminal act defined by the Justice System Fighting Bomb Threat

MERIT SYSTEM

To promote positive behavior at Strayhorn School, a Merit system will be used. The Merit system will be based on awarded or earned points. Meritorious behaviors will be awarded points based on duration of activity or frequency. Points of Merit will reduce a students incurred demerit points. Students having a positive number of merits will be rewarded accordingly. Examples of meritorious behavior are behaviors that exemplify the expectations of Strayhorn School. Being respectful: To the campusCleaning the grounds for a given amount of time before or after school.

Being responsible: For ones learningAttending tutoring sessions. Being prepared: For school each dayIncurring no tardies for a period of time.

There are many opportunities to achieve merit points. Taking pride in ones education will likely result in the achievement of merit points.

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CHEATING (TCSD Board Policy JCA)

Students shall not give or receive information or facts under circumstances that would cause anyone to doubt their honesty or strength of character. When it is determined that a student is cheating, a zero will be given for the work involved.

CORPORAL PUNISHMENT (TCSD Board Policy JDB & JCD)

Corporal punishment may be administered in the Tate County School System as a disciplinary procedure for infractions deemed appropriate. In each instance, another staff member shall be present. Corporal punishment may be administered to both sexes. Corporal punishment means the reasonable use of physical contact by a teacher, principal, or assistant principal as may be necessary to maintain discipline, to enforce a school rule, for self-protection or for the protection of other students from disruptive students. Corporal punishment in the form of paddling shall be witnessed at all times by at least one (1) school employee. 37-11-57

ELECTRONIC DEVICES (TCSD Board Policy JCAA)

Electronic devices are not allowed on campus. These devices include cell phones, mp3 players, ipods, radios, cd players, or other personal computer devices. Tate County School District will not be responsible for any items that are lost or stolen on campus and we will not search for any devices lost or stolen. If any of these devices are confiscated the following discipline actions will occur: 1st offense 15 day confiscation and 1 day of Saturday school detention (1st available date) 2nd offense 30 day confiscation and 2 days of Saturday school detention (consecutively) 3rd offense confiscation for a minimum of 60 days and 3 days suspension from school If a student refuses to give their electronic device to a school official they will be written up for insubordination, suspended for 3 days.

OPTIONAL LEARNING CENTER (OLC)

Students assigned to OLC will not be permitted to attend any day or night school functions.

PHYSICAL, VERBAL, or ELECTRONIC ABUSE

It is the policy of the Tate County School Board that each student will respect the person and feelings of all students and teachers of the system and that violence and abuse, physical or verbal, of any kind whatsoever toward each other, will not be tolerated. This abuse includes, but is not limited to, fighting, hitting, or throwing at another person with any object including any part of the body. Abuse also includes any and all profanity, threats, and refusal to follow proper instructions and legitimate requests of faculty or staff by disrespectful words or actions. Any student who physically or verbally abuses another student, teacher or employee of the system may be subject to school board policy.

POSSESSION OF WEAPONS (TCSD Board Policy JCDAE)

No pupil attending school in the district shall be permitted to carry upon his person, in any manner, or have in his possession any article or device, which is designed to be used as a weapon. Any item which could reasonably be used to inflict bodily pain, or any item used to physically threaten, attack, or intimidate another person is considered a weapon. Any item which may be used as a weapon, such as a razor blade, and which is not normally used in a school setting will be classified as a weapon under this policy unless school officials authorize the possession of the item. No pupil shall carry on his person or in any other manner or the have in his or her possession any knife, razor, razor blade, ice pick, brass or metallic knuckles, bb gun, cap pistol, stun gun, pellet gun, plastic or toy gun, or any dynamite, firecrackers, caps or other fireworks of any nature, kind, or description or other instrument or paraphernalia which when used in a vicious manner could cause bodily harm, injury, or death to any person. The provisions of this policy statement shall apply to all pupils during all of the period of time that they are under and subject to the jurisdiction of this school district as defined by the laws of the State of Mississippi, and while participating in or going to or from any school activity sponsored by this school district and while under the supervision and direction of any teacher, principal or other authority or the school district. Any pupil violating any of the provisions of this policy statement of the official policy of this board shall be subject to automatic expulsion by the superintendent or principal from each school. Such expulsion shall take effect immediately subject to the constitutional rights of due process. This policy is for the sole and exclusive protection of the pupils of this school district and their general welfare and nothing herein contained shall be construed to avoid any prosecution under any pertinent criminal statute of the State of Mississippi. School administrators have the authority to conduct reasonable searches of students, lockers and vehicles when such persons and/or objects are located on school property and the administrator conducts the search pursuant to his or her official duties as a school employee. The superintendent of schools may waive this policy when its enforcement would violate state or federal laws or regulations.

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The enforcement of these provisions is subject to the good judgment and sound discretion of the Superintendent of Education and the County Board of Education.

SCHOOL BUS SAFETY (TCSD Board Policy JCDAD)

Students should be familiar with the following regulations to assure safety on school buses. Be at your assigned loading zone on time. If you must walk to the bus stop and there are no sidewalks, face the traffic so that drivers can see you and you can see them. Do not play on or near the road while waiting for the bus. If you must cross the road, do not cross until the bus arrives and the safety patrol has given you the signal to cross. Look both ways before crossing. When crossing the road, always cross at least six feet in front of the bus. Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop before trying to lad or unload. Use handrail while loading or unloading. Never get under a bus for any reason. When leaving the bus, move away from the loading zone as soon as possible, but do not run. There will be no loading or unloading at any other place than the school or the students regular bus stop, except for parental requests that have been approved by the district office. Do not talk to the driver or distract the drivers attention except in an emergency. Do not make unnecessary noise. Keep head, hands, and articles inside the bus. If you must stand while riding the bus, get someone to hold your books and hold on to the back seat. Do not bring unauthorized articles on the bus. Be courteous to the driver and fellow passengers. Follow instructions of the driver and safety patrol.

While on the bus:

Disciplinary rules and regulations that apply to students while on the school campus also apply to students while on the school bus. When a student is referred to the office for misbehavior on the school bus, the rules regarding discipline and disciplinary procedures will be followed. In addition, the following procedures will be applied: 1) 2) 3) 4) First report: The parent, student, bus driver, Director of Transportation, and Principal will meet to correct the students negative behavior. Second report: Removed from the bus for three to five (3-5) days. Third report: Removed from the bus for up to ten (10) days. Fourth report: Removed from the bus for up to the remainder of the school year.

Any student who fights on the bus will be suspended up to 20 days from the bus and up to 7 days from school. Any subsequent fighting for same student on the bus during the school year will result in expulsion from the bus for the remainder of the school year and recommendation to the Tate County Board of Education for expulsion from school. STUDENTS ON THE BUS ARE CONSIDERED TO BE ON SCHOOL GROUNDS AND ALL SCHOOL RULES APPLY.

SCHOOL PROPERTY
Students are required to replace or reimburse the school for replacement of all damaged, destroyed, or stolen property. This includes vandalizing or marking graffiti on any school property. Payment for damaged property does not transfer ownership of property. A parent, guardian or custodian of a compulsory-school-age child shall be responsible financially for his or her minor childs destructive acts against school property or persons.

SEARCH AND SEIZURE (TCSD Board Policy JCDA)

School property is subject to inspection at any time to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of all students. When feasible, lockers should be opened in the presence of the student. Items specifically prohibited by law, board policy, and/or school regulations shall be impounded and the proper disciplinary action taken. Students may be searched if there is reasonable suspicion that the student possesses prohibited items. If such items are found, they will be impounded and appropriate disciplinary procedures will be followed. Searches may be made only when authorized by the

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superintendent or his designee (principal). Searches are to be made in the presence of a certified professional staff member. Searches of female students must be conducted by a female staff member with a female witness. Searches of male students must be conducted by a male staff member with a male witness. The students must be informed of the reason for the search (Why do you have reason to believe that the student has in his/her possession that violates school rules?) If the student refuses to be searched, consultation between the principal and the parent shall occur. If the student continues to refuse, the student shall be suspended for a period of time equal to the punishment that would have been assigned if the student has been searched and found to be in possession of material that violates school regulations and shall be referred to the Tate County Disciplinary Committee for a hearing to determine if additional punishment is appropriate. MASS SEARCHES OF STUDENTS ARE PROHIBITED. The operation of a motor vehicle on the campus of any Tate County School is a privilege, not a right. Motor vehicles driven to school by students and parked on the campus are subject to search when reasonable suspicion exists. The vehicle should be searched in the presence of the student. If the student refuses to agree to the search, disciplinary procedures previously outlined shall be followed. Law enforcement officials may be contacted if sufficient cause exists to justify the issuing of a search warrant.

SMOKING AND OTHER USES OF TOBACCO (TCSD Board Policy)

Students are not allowed to use or possess tobacco in ANY form during school hours or on the school grounds prior to the opening and closing of a school day or while riding on a school bus and during certain school sponsored extra-curricular activities. IT IS A FEDERAL LAW THAT ANYONE UNDER THE AGE OF 18 CANNOT BE IN POSSESSION OF TOBACCO.

STUDENT SUSPENSION (TCSD Board Policy JCAA)

Suspension is the denial of the privilege of attending school in the district (imposed after due process) upon any student in the district at the discretion of the principal of the school in which the student is enrolled. Students under suspension shall not trespass upon any other campus or enter into any other school building except for a pre-arranged conference with a principal. Additionally, students under suspension shall not attend any day or night school functions. When unacceptable behavior cannot be corrected, the school board of education has authorized the school principal or his designee to suspend any student for violation of any published rule or regulation or for any other act of misconduct or insubordination as a final effort to influence the students future behavior. The principal may suspend students for a period not to exceed 5 school days with the exception of drug related charges, weapons charges, and fighting charges. With the approval of the superintendent, the principal may suspend students for a period not to exceed ten (10) school days. Recommendations for suspension in excess of ten days or recommendations for expulsion shall be made to the Tate County Disciplinary Committee for a due process hearing. If the parent, guardian or other person having custody of a student who has been suspended shall feel aggrieved by the suspension of the student, said individual shall have the right of appeal to the Tate County Board of Education by means of a due process hearing. The parent or guardian of the child shall be advised of the right to a hearing by the superintendent, principal, and/or chairperson of the Disciplinary Committee and the proper form shall be provided for requesting such hearing.

DRESS CODE (Strayhorn Jr. High/High School)

Physical Features: No unnatural hair colors shall be worn. Tattoos will not be visible. Only earrings which are of non-gauge size are acceptable. Neither male nor female students will be permitted to wear rings and/or studs in their noses, tongues, or other exposed body parts other than the ear. Rings on the fingers are acceptable. Articles of Clothing: No article of clothing may depict anything profane, suggestive, derogatory, violent, or illegal by minors (e.g. alcohol, drugs, tobacco, gambling) Shirts: Only collared shirts and official school T-shirts. Collared shirts may have only the top button undone. All shirts may neither expose the midriff, any part of the bust, or an excessive part of the back, nor be excessively tight or be distracting in class. T-Shirts must be intact. All shirts are to be tucked in.

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Pants: Only blue or black jeans, khakis, or dress pants are allowed; however, shorts of any kind are not allowed. Jeans may not have adornment. Pants must not have holes: all pants must be intact. Pants must be worn fitted to the natural waist. Neither baggy or loose-fitting pants nor excessively tight-fitting pants may be worn. Dresses or Skirts: Knee-length dresses and skirts are allowed; however, no slit shall rise above the kneecaps. Leggings may be worn beneath skirts or dresses; however, dresses and skirts must still be knee-length. Footwear: Neither shower-shoes nor house-shoes may be worn. Footwear must be worn at all times. Heels may be no taller than two inches. No steel toe boots. Footwear with laces must be laced. Miscellaneous Articles: Neither head-coverings nor sunglasses are to be either worn or visible. If a student wears a court ordered monitor, it must be covered at all times. Underclothes must be both sufficient and not visible.

DRESS CODE ENFORCEMENT POLICY

Implementation of the uniform policy will be enforced the students' 1st day of school. New students will be allowed 5 days. 1st Offense - Call parent to bring clothes or if parent is unavailable the student will remain in ISS for the day. 2nd Offense Home suspension. 3rd Offense In School Suspension.

AUTOMOBILES (TCSD Board Policy JGFF)

Cars driven to the campus are to be parked in the areas reserved for students, and are not to be moved except after the dismissal of students. Students are not to go to the parking lot during school hours unless permission is first obtained from the principal and/or the student has checked out to go home. Students are not to sit in cars parked on the campus at any time during the school day. A student who receives 4 tardies in a 9 week period will lose driving privileges for 45 days. Car trouble is not an excused tardy. Cars must display a parking permit, which can be purchased in the high school office. Cost of the permits is $5.00. The student must have a valid drivers license and proof of insurance required to operate a motor vehicle. Not having a valid parking permit may result in a $10 fine or may result in the automobile being towed at owners expense. Students who abuse automobile privileges by improper driving or parking will be subject to having these privileges revoked. Tate County School District is not responsible for automobiles or contents damaged or lost while on school campus.

FOOD SERVICES (TCSD Board Policy JGH-R)

The school district serves breakfast and lunch in all its schools. Well-balanced meals and healthy eating habits are an important part of every students growth and development. We encourage students to begin their school day with breakfast and enjoy nutritious lunches in our cafeteria. In accordance with Federal (USDA) guidelines, commercially prepared competitive food and drink items will not be distributed or sold one hour prior to or during the lunch period and will not be taken into the cafeteria during lunch. In accordance with federal requirements the Offer vs. Serve policy is in effect for all high school students. This allows the student to select any three of the five food items offered on the menu. Students must choose at least three of the five components offered; however, selecting only three of five items does not relieve the student from paying the full price of the meal. Students who bring their lunch may purchase milk but cannot purchase menu items. All students will receive an application for free and reduced-price items. Each student must apply each year. Students new to the district must pay for meals until approved for meal benefits. Applications are available throughout the year. Breakfast Prices: Reduced - $0.30 Regular - $0.40 Adult - $1.75 Lunch Prices: Reduced - $0.40 Regular - $2.00 Adult - $3.00

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GUIDANCE SERVICES

Guidance services shall be available for every student in the district. These services shall be supervised at all grade levels by a properly licensed guidance counselor. Guidance shall include aiding the student in discovering and measuring his/her capabilities, abilities and real interest; in helping him/her obtain adequate and accurate information about schools, courses, occupations and careers, and in helping him/her solve personal and academic problems. Students and parents will be encouraged to avail themselves of the help of guidance personnel.

MARRIED OR PREGNANT STUDENTS

Married students are to abide by ALL rules and regulations of the school. Pregnant students must notify the counselor. If the student desires to remain in school, approval from the students attending physician must be obtained in writing.

SCHOOL PHONES
The office phones are for school business use only. Students will not be allowed to use the phone unless it is approved by the principal. Students will not be called out of class for personal phone calls.

TEXTBOOKS
Textbooks are supplied by the school at no cost to the student on a loan basis. Since these books remain the property of the school district, defacement or abuse of books will result in the assessment of a damage fee. In cases where books are lost or damaged to a degree that will prevent further use, the student will be charged as established under district policy.

IMMUNIZATIONS AND VACINATIONS (TCSD Board Policy JGCB)

It is unlawful for any child to attend school without first being vaccinated with at least one dose of diphtheria, whooping cough, tetanus, red measles, rubella, and polio vaccine and completing the entire series within ninety (90) days. Every student in Kindergarten through Grade 12 must present a certificate of immunization compliance from his/her doctor or from the health department. This certificate of compliance (Form 121) must be presented in order to attend school, even though all shot records are now up-to-date on school records. Other valid certificates include Form 121-A, Medical Exemption Certificate, or Form 121-T, Temporary Compliance Certificate. In order to secure this certificate of compliance, it will be necessary for the student to go to the local county Health Department, the office of his/her family physician, taking with him/her all official shot records. Before a child can register, the certificate of compliance must be presented. The validation of this certificate will become a permanent part of the student's records and will be valid through grade twelve. If the doctor signs the certificate indicating that other doses are necessary, the student will be given ninety (90) days to complete the required immunizations; if they are not completed at the end of ninety (90) days, the child by law must be suspended until compliance is achieved.

RESIDENCE VERIFICATION PROCEDURE (TCSD Board Policy JBC)

As a result of the Residency Verification Procedure adopted as a policy of the Mississippi Board of Education for the 2008-2009 RESIDENCE VERIFICATION PROCEDURE Definition of residence for school attendance purposes: The student physically resides full time week days/nights and weekends, at a place of abode located within the limits of Tate County School District. Residency may be determined in the following manner: STUDENTS LIVING WITH PARENT(S) OR GUARDIAN(S) The parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of a student seeking to enroll must provide Tate County School District with at least two of the items numbered 1 through 8 below as verification of their address, except that a document with a post office box as an address will not be accepted. 1. Filed Homestead Exemption Application form 2. Mortgage documents or property deed 3. Apartment or home lease 4. Utility bills-Gas, Water, Electric, Garbage 5. Automobile registration 6. Personal visit by a designated school district official 7. Any other documentation that will objectively and unequivocally establish that the parent or guardian resides within the school district 8. Certified copy of filed petition for guardianship if pending and final decree when granted HOMELESS CHILDREN When a child is determined to be homeless as defined by the Stewart B. McKinney Act 42 USC Section 11431 (1), 11432 (e) and 11302 (a), Tate County School District shall consider and take enrollment action that is in the best interest of the child pursuant to 42 USC 11432 (e) (3).

STUDENTS LIVING WITH ADULTS OTHER THAN PARENTS OR LEGAL GUARDIANS:

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The non-parent(s) claiming district residency must meet the criteria of subparagraph (a) (1) through (8) above, required of a parent or legal guardian. 9. The district resident must provide the school with an appropriate legal documentation stating his or her relationship to the student, and that the student will be living at his/her abode full time, and provide documentation fully explaining the reason(s) (other than school attendance zone or district preference) for this arrangement. The superintendent or his/her designee will make the necessary factual determinations as required under this policy. Examples of situations where in loco parents authority of an adult will be recognized to establish residency of the minor include but are not limited to the following: (a) Death or serious illness of the child=s parent(s) or guardian(s); (b) Abandonment of the child; (c) Child abuse or neglect; (d) Unstable family relationships or undesirable conditions in the home of the childs parents or guardians having a detrimental effect on the child; (e) Students enrolled in recognized exchange programs residing with host families. 3. Whenever appropriate the person who has assumed responsibility for the care and custody of the child shall be encouraged to obtain legal guardianship of the child. Tate County School District may require additional documentation and verification at any time. At the minimum, Tate County School District shall maintain in a file a written instrument identifying the types of documents used to verify each students residency and copies of any relevant guardianship petition or decree. The provisions of this policy do not apply to students who reside outside the Tate County School District, but who have legally transferred into the school district. Any court ordered procedure shall take precedent over any procedure contained herein. Any student who is released from another district and approved by the Tate County School Board must pay $2,500 per year for by the 1st day of school.

1.

SCHOOL DANCES
Tate County School District will not sponsor or host and type of school dance, prom, or senior trip. Fundraising for such activities will not be allowed on school campus.

TITLE I
The goal of the Title I program is to help every child attain a high-quality education. This help is provided through smaller classes, additional teachers and assistant teachers, more training for school staff, extra instructional time in key subject areas, and a variety of teaching methods and materials.
Each year the federal government sends each state a basic grant for its Title I program. The state then sends Title I money to the school districts based on their number of low-income families. The local school district selects target schools and develops programs that add to the regular classroom instruction, and works to involve parents in all aspects of the program.

MUSTANG CLUB
The honor organization of Strayhorn High School is the Mustang Club. Seniors who accumulate 100 points in all school-sponsored activities are eligible for membership in the Mustang Club. Not more that forty of the 100 points may be earned in any field of activity. Those students interested only in athletics would not be eligible; neither would one interested only in club participation. Since this is a select group of students, membership in the Mustang Club should be considered as a distinct honor. Membership in the Club will also depend upon the pupils record in scholarship, conduct, and sportsmanship. Any students membership in the Club may be cancelled for ungentlemanly, unladylike, or unsportsmanlike conduct. Membership is possible only through accumulated points that begin with the ninth grade. (Exception: Class of 2012 must accumulate at least 75 points during the 10th-12th grades.) Since the Mustang Club is based on the students record in academics and activities sponsored by the school, a definite number of points has been assigned to each activity and the benefits to be derived by the student. Careful consideration has been given to the time involved for each activity. Points assigned assume active participation in the activity, club, sport, etc. for the entire school year or season. The greatest number of points that can be awarded in any area for a year will be 15. The following is a list of activities in which you may earn points toward the Mustang Club. (As our school grows, more activities may be added to the list below.) 17

Clubs/Organizations Club Membership Club Officer* Student Council Student Council Officer* Newspaper Staff Newspaper Editor* Yearbook Staff Yearbook Editor* Miscellaneous Class Officer Cheerleader Head Cheerleader* Peer Tutor/Mediator Office Assistant Teacher Assistant Library Assistant Honor Roll Beauty Review

5 1-2 more 5 1-2 more 5 1-2 more 5 1-2 more 5 5 1-2 more 5 5 5 5 3 1

Sports Each sport Statistician Manager Performing Arts Drama Production Talent Show

5 3 3

5 1

*Additional 1-2 points may be earned by club officers or head cheerleader for exemplary service at the discretion of the sponsor.

*Points will be deducted for out of school suspensions and excessive office referrals.

ANTI-DISCRIMINATION POLICY

The Tate County School District advocates and adheres to a policy of equal educational and employment opportunity without regard to race sex, color, creed, religion, disability, or national origin. This policy, which extends to all programs and activities of the school district, arises out of the following statutes: Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U. S. C. 2000 et seq. and its implementing regulation, 43 C. F. R., Part 100 Individuals with Disabilities Education Act ("IDEA"), 20 U.S.C., 1400 et seq. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 20 U. S. C. 794 and its implementing regulation, 34 C. F. R., Part 104 Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, as amended, 20 U. S. C. 1681 et seq., and its implementing regulation, 34 C. F. R. Part 106 The Age Discrimination Act of 1975, 42 U. S. C. 6601 et seq. and its implementing regulation, 45 C. F. R. Part 90 The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 Inquiries regarding compliance may be directed to: Office of Superintendent Attn: Juanita Jamison 107 Court Street Senatobia, MS 38668 Phone: 662-562-5861

ADMISSION PROCEDURES (TCSD Board Policy JBC)

GENERAL ELIGIBILITY 1. Tate County School District shall admit into its free public schools all minor-age children (MS Code ' 1-3-27) and all compulsory school age children as defined by in MS Code ' 37-13-91 (2) (f). 2. Each minor child shall attend school in Tate County School District of his/her residence unless legally transferred to another school district by the school board pursuant to MS Code ' 37-15-29. 3. Except for those students who have been legally transferred, each minor child seeking to enroll in Tate County School District shall be a school district resident. All students shall register at the school they are assigned to attend. ' 37-15-29; ' 37-15-13 4. Any new student enrolling in Tate County School District or any continuing student whose residence has changed shall be accompanied to enrollment by a parent, guardian, adult custodian or adult agent of a social service agency of the district who shall register the minor child for admission, except students who have been legally transferred. The accompanying adult shall be required to verify his/her residence as herein provided as part of the registration process. ' 37-15-11 5. The person in charge of each school shall require any child enrolling in kindergarten or grade 1 to present a certified birth certificate and valid immunization certificate upon enrollment. No child will be allowed to enroll in or attend any school without a certified birth certificate or valid immunization certificate. ' 37-15-1 6. Subject to the provisions of MS Code 37-15-9, subsection (3), [see item 7 below] any child who transfers from an out-ofstate public or private school in which that states law provides for a first grade or kindergarten enrollment date subsequent

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7.

8.

to September 1, shall be allowed to enroll in Tate County School District at the same grade level as their prior out-of-state enrollment, if: a. The parent, legal guardian or custodian of such child was a legal resident of the state from which the child is transferring; b. The out-of-state school from which the child is transferring is duly accredited by that states appropriate accrediting authority; c. Such child was legally enrolled in a public or private school for a minimum of four (4) weeks in the previous state; and d. The superintendent of schools of Tate County School District has determined that the child was making satisfactory educational progress in the previous state. ' 37-15-9 When any child applies for admission or enrollment in Tate County School District, the parent, guardian or child, in the absence of an accompanying parent or guardian, shall indicate on the school registration form if the enrolling child has been expelled from any public or private school or is currently a party to an expulsion proceeding. If it is determined from the childs cumulative record or application for admission or enrollment that the child has been expelled, Tate County School District may deny the student admission and enrollment until the superintendent of the school or his designee has reviewed the child=s cumulative record and determined that the child has participated in successful rehabilitative efforts including, but not limited to, progress in an alternative school or similar program. If the child is a party to an expulsion proceeding, the child may be admitted to a public school pending final disposition of the expulsion proceeding. If the expulsion proceeding results in the expulsion of the child, Tate County School District may revoke such admission to school. If the child was expelled or is a party to an expulsion proceeding for an act involving violence, weapons, alcohol, illegal drugs or other activity that may result in expulsion, Tate County School District shall not be required to grant admission or enrollment to the child before one (1) calendar year after the date of the expulsion. ' 37-15-9 (3) No child in grades 2 through 12 shall be allowed to enroll in or attend Tate County School District without a valid immunization certificate. ' 37-15-1 Valid certificates include: 1. Form 121 -- Certificate of Compliance 2. Form 121-A -- Medical Exemption Certificate 3. Form 121-T -- Temporary Compliance Certificate The Temporary Compliance Certificate, Form 121-T, is not valid after the date shown. After that date, the principal shall deny school attendance by such child unless or until the principal is furnished another Temporary Compliance Certificate, Form 121-T, or a Certificate of Compliance, Form 121, or a Medical Exemption Certificate, Form 121-A.

This school district shall admit into its schools all eligible resident and legally transferred minor children who are at least five years old and not over 21 years of age on or before September 1 of the current school year. Each minor child shall attend school in the school district of his/her residence, unless legally transferred to another school district by the school board pursuant to Section 37-15-29 (1992). The student's parent or legal guardian will be required to verify his/her residence as herein provided as part of the registration process. In the case of separated or divorced parents, court orders and decrees involving custody of children will be controlling. In accordance with the laws of the State of Mississippi, in order to be admitted to kindergarten, students must be 5 years of age on or before September 1 of the current school year. First grade students must be 6 years of age on or before September 1 of the current school year. Certificates of Immunization and Vaccination are required upon entering school. This affects all students in grades K- 12. Student enrolling in grades two through twelve must present an up-to-date immunization record. Temporary enrollment will be allowed in the following cases: a. a temporary immunization is presented from the local Health Department. b. a copy of an official request for a birth certificate and a copy of the money order used to order the certificate is presented. c. an official letter from a lawyer or legal agency that states the custodian or guardianship process has officially begun is presented. Temporary enrollment means the student will be allowed to attend classes for forty-five days. At the end of the forty-five days, the student may be removed from the school and reported to the attendance officer. Temporary enrollment will preclude official recording or release of grades or verification for a drivers license. For any child enrolling in kindergarten or grade 1, a certified birth certificate must be presented upon admission. The birth certificate must be from the Bureau of Vital Statistics or from the State Department for students born overseas. Hospital records, baptismal records, etc., will not be acceptable. No other birth certificate is acceptable. The principal or his/her designee must verify the birth certificate. Telephone calls are not acceptable. Any child who transfers from an out-of-state public or private school in which the states law provides for a first grade or kindergarten enrollment date subsequent to September 1, shall be allowed to enroll in this school district at the same grade level as their prior out-of-state enrollment, if

19

a. b. c. d.

That parent, legal guardian or established custodian of such child was a legal resident of the state from which the child is transferring. The out-of-state school from which the child is transferring is duly accredited by that states appropriate accrediting authority. Such child was legally enrolled in a public or private school for a minimum of four weeks in the previous state. The superintendent of schools of this school district or designee has determined that the child was making satisfactory educational progress in the previous state.

If a student is transferring into a Tate County District school from a school accredited by a state or regional accrediting agency, an official transcript mailed directly from the office of the school previously attended will be required. A report card or transfer papers from the previous school attended may be used for temporary class placement. Students transferring into a school in the Tate County School District from a non-accredited school or home schooling must be given appropriate placement tests (grades K-8) and term tests (grades 9 - 12) as determined by school officials.

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT OF 1974

1. 2. Parent(s) or eligible student may request, in writing to the principal, an appointment to inspect and review contents of the student's educational records. Appointment must be granted within forty-five (45) days of request. Parent(s) or eligible student may request, in writing to the principal, that a school correct records believed to be inaccurate or misleading. If the school refuses to change the records, the parent(s) or eligible student may request, in writing to the principal, a formal hearing. After the hearing, if the school still refuses the correction, the parent(s) or eligible student has the right to put a note in the record explaining his or her concerns. Parent(s) or eligible student may review the student's record on request. Copies of a student's permanent record may be obtained for a fee of $3.00. All other materials in the student's cumulative folder may be copied for $3.00 per page. Educational records may not be released to a third party without the written consent of parent(s) or the eligible student. The following exceptions are legal: a. Designated certified school employees who have direct supervisory / academic responsibilities b. Other schools to which a student is transferring c. State or federal officials for audit purposes or for reporting information required by state statute d. Financial aid officials in connection with a student's application for aid e. Educational agencies for developing, validating, and administering predictive tests or studies if such information will not permit identification of individual students f. Appropriate persons who need information to protect health and safety of students g. Parents of a student over eighteen (18) who is still a dependent A record of individuals requesting access to the educational record of each student will be maintained in each school building. The record will contain the signature, the date, and the reasons for needing access and will be available for parents' review upon request. Parent(s) or eligible student may request, in writing within thirty (30) days of the first official school day of the year, that identifiable information regarding the student be deleted from school publications. Directory information which identifies students may be released unless the principal is requested by the parent/guardian not to do so. Requests from colleges, military organizations, prospective employers, and other legitimate groups may be honored when it is determined to be in the child's best interests.

3.

4.

5. 6. 7.

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a Federal law, requires that Tate County School District, with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your childs education records. However, Tate County School District may disclose appropriately designated directory information without written consent, unless you have advised Tate County School District to the contrary in accordance with the Tate County School District procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the Tate County School District to include this type of information from your childs education records in certain school publications. Examples include: A playbill, showing your students role in a drama production; The annual yearbook; Honor roll or other recognition lists; Graduation programs; and Sports activity sheets, such as for wrestling, showing weight and height of team members. Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parents prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In addition, two federal laws require local educational agencies (LEAs)

20

receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with the following information names, addresses and telephone listings unless parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their students information disclosed without their prior written consent. 3 If you do not want Tate County School District to disclose directory information from your childs education records without your prior written consent, you must notify the Tate County School District in writing by August 30, 2011. Tate County School District has designated the following information as directory information: Students name Major field of study Address Participation in officially recognized activities and sports Telephone listing Weight and height of members of athletic teams Electronic mail address Degrees, honors, and awards received Photograph Grade level Date and place of birth Student ID number, user ID, or other unique personal identifier used to communicate in electronic systems that cannot be used to access education records without a PIN, password, etc. ( A students SSN, in whole or in part, cannot be used for this purpose.)

TRANSFER STUDENTS (TCSD Board Policy JBCD)

No student is to be enrolled in the Tate County School District until any questions regarding residence or immunizations have been resolved. Students expelled from another school or school district may not be allowed to enroll in a Tate County School.

TRANSFER AND WITHDRAWAL OF STUDENTS (TCSD Board Policy JBCD)

All students enrolled in the school district after the beginning of the school session who move outside the district at any time during the school year must withdraw from the school system using the following method of withdrawal. The student's parent must come to the principal's office and officially withdraw his/her child. All books and fines must be cleared before official withdrawal is completed and the student's academic record is cleared. Any student who moves during the school year must record the change of address with the principal in the main office. The principal is authorized to release Tate County School District education reports or records when an official written request is received from the school district to which the student is transferred. (A parent or legal guardian has the right to review his/her child's school records.) A student leaving the Tate County system may obtain a record of the student's work to date for the current term. Reports may be held if the student has any indebtedness to the school (lunchroom, workbooks, library, textbooks, damages, etc.). In grades K- 1 2, if a student withdraws during the last two weeks of the school year and moves out of the district, the student will receive grades in progress to be presented to his/her new school. The school to which the student is transferring will have the option of accepting the grades in progress as the student's final grade or--for students in grades 9-12--requesting examinations from the Tate County School District. The examinations may be mailed to the student's new school upon written request of the school to which the student is transferring. Examinations, when completed, will be checked by Tate County school personnel and credit will be given by the Tate County School District

VISITORS ON CAMPUS
All visitors must report to the office upon entering the campus. All visitors will be required to leave their car keys in the office while attending to business within the school, sign a log noting arrival and departure times, and get a visitor's pass. Visitors must first obtain a pass from the Principals office immediately upon arriving on campus. Visitors who fail to secure written permission from the Principal's office to be on campus may be referred to police officials. Students shall not bring non-enrolled children to school.

These laws are: Section 9528 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (20 U.S.C. 7908) and 10 U.S.C. 503(c). 21

APPENDIX A-2 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS STANDARD 20 SENIORS OF SCHOOL YEAR 2008-2009, 2009-2010 & 2010-2011 (Entering ninth graders in 2005-2006, 2006-2007, 2007-2008) Any student who completes the minimum graduation requirements as specified below and has achieved a passing score on each of the required high school exit examinations is eligible to receive a high school diploma. The local school district may establish additional local requirements approved by the local school board as authorized under MS Code 3716-7.

CURRICULUM AREA

CARNEGIE UNITS

REQUIRED SUBJECTS

ENGLISH MATHEMATICS SCIENCE SOCIAL STUDIES

41 42 33 3 5 16 1 4 7 21
Algebra I Biology I 1 World History 1 U.S. History U.S. Government Mississippi Studies4 Comprehensive Health or Family and Individual Health 1 Computer Discovery or Keyboarding and Computer Applications Any approved 500.000 course or completion of the 2-course sequence for Computer Graphics Technology I and II

HEALTH BUSINESS & TECHNOLOGY THE ARTS ELECTIVES TOTAL UNITS REQUIRED

22

APPENDIX A-2 (Continued) GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS STANDARD 20 SENIORS OF SCHOOL YEAR 2008-2009, 2009-2010 & 2010-2011 (Entering ninth graders in 2005-2006, 2006-2007 & 2007-2008)

Compensatory Reading and Compensatory Writing may not be included in the four English courses required for graduation; however, these courses may be included in the 4 general electives required for graduation.
1

Compensatory Mathematics and any developmental mathematics course may not be included in the four mathematics courses required for graduation; however, these courses may be included in the 4 general electives required for graduation. Beginning school year 2004-2005 for all entering eighth graders, at least one of the four required mathematics courses must be higher than Algebra I. The allowable mathematics courses that can be taken which are higher than Algebra I are: Geometry, Algebra II, Advanced Algebra, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, Discrete Mathematics, Statistics, and AP Statistics. One of the four required mathematics units may be in Drafting if the student completes the 2-course sequence for Drafting I & II. Effective with the eighth graders of 2004-2005, Pre-Algebra, Transition to Algebra, and Algebra I, may be taken in the eighth grade for Carnegie unit credit.
2

One unit may be in Introduction to Agriscience, Concepts of Agriscience, Science of Agricultural Plants, Science of Agricultural Animals, or Science of Agricultural Environment. Two units may be in the following courses if the student completes the 2-course sequence: Agriscience I & II; Allied Health I & II; Aquaculture I & II; Forestry I & II; Horticulture I & II; Plastics and Polymer Science I & II; and Technology Applications I & II. Two units may be earned by completing the following AEST 3-course sequence: one unit in Concepts of Agriscience; one unit in Science of Agricultural Animals or Science of Agricultural Plants, or Science of Agricultural Environment; and one unit in Agribusiness and Entrepreneurship.
3

The credit earned for a State/Local Government course in any other state by an out-of-state transfer student who enters after the sophomore year can stand in lieu of Mississippi Studies or Mississippi State and Local Government. If the transfer student took a State/Local Government course in a grade level that did not award Carnegie unit credit, then any other unit social studies course may be accepted. An out-of-state student who transfers after the junior year may substitute any other unit social studies course.
4

Credit earned in Allied Health I/Health Science I may be accepted in lieu of Comprehensive Health or Family and Individual Health to meet the graduation requirement for Carnegie unit in Health.
5

Evidence of proficiency in Keyboarding and Computer Applications is accepted in lieu of the required courses if the student earns one unit in any of the courses listed in the Business and Technology Framework (academic and vocational).
6

Elective units in physical education include participation in interscholastic athletic activities, band, and ROTC that meet the instructional requirements specified in the Fitness through Physical Education Framework and that are sanctioned by the Mississippi High School Activities Association.
7

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APPENDIX A-3 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS STANDARD 20 SENIORS OF SCHOOL YEAR 2011-2012 (Entering ninth graders in 2008-2009)

Beginning school year 2008-2009 and thereafter, all entering ninth graders (seniors of school year 2011-2012 and later) will be required to have a minimum of 24 Carnegie units as specified below, unless their parent/guardian requests to opt the student out of Appendix A-3 requirements. Any student who is taken out of these requirements of Appendix A-3 will be required to complete the graduation requirements as specified in Appendix A-2. The local school district may establish additional local requirements approved by the local school board as authorized under MS Code 37-16-7.

CURRICULUM AREA

CARNEGIE UNITS

REQUIRED SUBJECTS
English II Algebra I Biology I 1 World History 1 U.S. History Geography U.S. Government Economics Mississippi Studies4 Comprehensive Health or Family and Individual Health and Physical Education7 1 Computer Discovery or Keyboarding and Computer Applications Any approved 500.000 course or completion of the 2-course sequence for Computer Graphics Technology I and II

ENGLISH MATHEMATICS SCIENCE SOCIAL STUDIES

41 42 43 4

HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION6 BUSINESS & TECHNOLOGY THE ARTS ELECTIVES TOTAL UNITS REQUIRED

15 16 1 5 24

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APPENDIX A-3 (Continued) GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS STANDARD 20 SENIORS OF SCHOOL YEAR 2011-2012 (Entering ninth graders in 2008-2009)
Compensatory Reading and Compensatory Writing may not be included in the four English courses required for graduation; however, these courses may be included in the 5 general electives required for graduation.
1

Compensatory Mathematics and any developmental mathematics course may not be included in the four mathematics courses required for graduation; however, these courses may be included in the 5 general electives required for graduation. Students are prohibited from taking Pre-Algebra or any other lower level math after successfully completing Algebra I. One of the four required mathematics units may be in Drafting if the student completes the 2course sequence for Drafting I & II. Beginning school year 2007-2008 for all entering eighth graders, at least two of the four required mathematics courses must be higher than Algebra I. Effective with the eighth graders of 2008-2009, Pre-Algebra and Transition to Algebra may not be taken after a student completes Algebra I. The allowable mathematics courses that can be taken which are higher than Algebra I are: Geometry, Algebra II, Advanced Algebra, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, Discrete Mathematics, Statistics, and AP Statistics. Effective with the eighth graders of 2004-2005, Pre-Algebra, Transition to Algebra, and Algebra I, may be taken in the eighth grade for Carnegie unit credit. Effective with the eighth graders of 2008-2009, Geometry may be taken in the eighth grade for Carnegie unit credit.
2

One unit may be in Introduction to Agriscience, Concepts of Agriscience, Science of Agricultural Plants, Science of Agricultural Animals, or Science of Agricultural Environment. Two units may be in the following courses if the student completes the 2-course sequence: Agriscience I & II; Allied Health I & II; Aquaculture I & II; Forestry I & II; Horticulture I & II; Plastics and Polymer Science I & II; and Technology Applications I & II. Two units may be earned by completing the AEST 3-course sequence: one unit in Concepts of Agriscience; one unit in Science of Agricultural Animals or Science of Agricultural Plants, or Science of Agricultural Environment; and one unit in Agribusiness and Entrepreneurship. Beginning school year 2008-2009 for all entering eight graders, one unit must be a lab-based physical science. The allowable lab-based physical science courses are Physical Science, Chemistry I, Chemistry II, AP Chemistry, Physics I, Physics II, AP Physics B, AP Physics C Electricity and Magnetism, and AP Physics C Mechanics.
3

The credit earned for a State/Local Government course in any other state by an out-of-state transfer student who enters after the sophomore year can stand in lieu of Mississippi Studies or Mississippi State and Local Government. If the transfer student took a State/Local Government course in a grade level that did not award Carnegie unit credit, then any other unit social studies course may be accepted. An out-of-state student who transfers after the junior year may substitute any other unit social studies course.
4

Credit earned in Allied Health I/Health Science I may be accepted in lieu of Comprehensive Health or Family and Individual Health to meet the graduation requirement for Carnegie unit in Health.
5

Evidence of proficiency in Keyboarding and Computer Applications is accepted in lieu of the required courses if the student earns one unit in any of the courses listed in the Business and Technology Framework (academic and vocational).
6

Carnegie units (up to one each school year) in physical education may be received from participation in interscholastic athletic activities, band, and ROTC if they meet the instructional requirements specified in the Fitness through Physical Education Framework. Interscholastic athletic activities used for Carnegie unit credit must be sanctioned by the Mississippi High School Activities Association
7

23

Career Pathway Option

(21 credits) Seniors of School Year 2013-2014 Entering 9th Graders in 2010-2011

Curriculum Area
English Mathematics Science Social Studies

Carnegie Units
4 3 3 3 English I English II Algebra I Biology I

Required Subjects

1 U.S. History U.S. Government Mississippi Studies Comprehensive Health, Family and Individual Health, or Physical Education Selected from Students Program of Study Computer Discovery, ICT II, 9 STEM, or Computer Applications and Keyboarding Courses selected from the students approved Program of Study
th

Health and Physical Education

Career and Technical Integrated Technology Additional Electives Total Units Required

4 1 2 21

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Acceptable Use Policy and Internet Safety Agreement

Statement of Purpose The Tate County School District is pleased to offer our students access to the World Wide Web and other electronic networks. The advantages afforded by the rich, digital resources available today through the World Wide Web outweigh any disadvantage. However, it is important to remember that access is a privilege, not a right, and carries with it responsibilities for all involved. Terms of Agreement In order for a student to be allowed access to a school computer system, computer network, and the Internet, parents must sign and return the attached consent form by September 4, 2009. Acceptable Uses The District is providing access to its school computer systems, computer networks, and the Internet for educational purposes only. If you have any doubt about whether a contemplated activity is educational, you may consult with the person(s) designated by the school to help you decide. Accordingly, regulations for participation by anyone on the Internet shall include but not be limited to the following: a) All users must abide by rules of Network etiquette Netiquette, including the following: Be polite. Use appropriate language and graphics. No swearing, vulgarities, suggestive, obscene, belligerent, or threatening language. Avoid language and/or graphic representations which may be offensive to other users. Do not use network or Internet access to make, distribute, or redistribute jokes, stories, or other material which is based on slurs or stereotypes relating to race, gender, ethnicity, nationality, or religion. Do not assume that a sender of e-mail is giving his or her permission for you to forward or redistribute the message to third parties or to give his/her e-mail address to third parties. This should only be done with permission or when you know that the individual would have no objection. b) All software installed on district computers must be licensed. Other than district or state provided software, any additional software to be installed must have prior approval of the principal, technology director, or superintendent. c) Teachers may allow individual students to use email, electronic chat rooms, instant messaging, sage boards, blogs, and other forms of direct electronic communications for educational purposes only and with proper supervision. Proper supervision shall include the teachers having the documentation of the students username and password on file and the ability to monitor the account. This includes the use of student personal email accounts used in the school environment. If a student uses his/her personal email account or accesses other forms of communication on a school computer, the teacher must monitor all communications and have access to the students username password for such an account. In addition, if student personal accounts are accessed through the district network, the profile for student personal accounts must not contain any identifiable information such as last name, address, or phone number of the student. d) No personal addresses, personal phone numbers, or last names of students will be permitted to be given out on the Internet. No identifiable photographs will be allowed to be published on the Internet without appropriate written consent. Concerning a student, appropriate written consent means a signature by a parent or legal guardian of the student. e) A student may not attempt to access any Internet resource without the prior consent of the teacher. The Internet is an extension of the classroom and teachers are responsible for and must be aware of where his/her student goes on the Internet. f) In general, the Internet is not an entertainment box or babysitting tool and should not be used to play non-educational games, listen to music, watch T.V. shows, movies, or Youtube videos. Just because it is lunch, study hall, or instruction has finished for the period is not a reason for individuals to play computer games or randomly surf the Internet. Privacy. Network and Internet access is provided as a tool for your education. The District reserves the right to monitor, inspect, copy, review and store at any time and without prior notice any and all usage of the computer, associated files, network, and Internet access and any and all information transmitted or received in connection with such usage. All such information shall be and remain the property of the District and no user shall have any expectation of privacy regarding such materials. g) Student Photos/Student Work. Publishing student pictures and work on websites promotes learning, collaboration and provides an opportunity to share the achievements of students. Images and products of K-12 students may be included on the website without identifying captions or names. Parents/guardians must indicate their written consent to publish their childs photo or school work on any school related website before the item is published to the web. Please note that under no circumstances will K-12 student photos or work be identified with first and last name on a Tate County website, including the district, school, or teacher website.

Copyright. All students and faculty must adhere to the copyright laws of the United States (P.L. 94-553) and the Congressional Guidelines that delineate it regarding software, authorship, and copying information. Failure to Follow Acceptable Use Policy Use of the computer network and Internet is a privilege, not a right. A user who violates this agreement shall, at a minimum, have his or her access to the network and Internet terminated and is subject to disciplinary action by the school administrator. The District may also take other disciplinary actions. Unacceptable Uses of the Network may include: a) Uses that cause harm to others or damage to their property. For example, do not engage in defamation (harming anothers reputation by lies); do not employ anothers password or some other user identifier that misleads message recipients into believing that someone other than you is communicating or otherwise using his/her access to the network or the Internet; do not upload a work, virus, trojan horse, time bomb, or other harmful form of programming or vandalism; do not participate in hacking activities or any form of unauthorized access to other computers, networks, or information systems.

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b)

Uses that jeopardize the security of student access and of the computer network or other networks on the Internet. For example, do not disclose or share your password with others; do not impersonate another user. c) Uses that are commercial transactions. Students may not use the school network to sell or buy anything over the Internet. You should not give others private information about yourself or others. d) Access to online dating and social networking sites such as MySpace and Facebook will be prohibited. e) Due to bandwidth constrictions and educational value, access to multimedia sites such as Youtube will not be allowed. Access to multimedia-rich sites such as Discovery Ed United Streaming, Teachertube, PBS, and others which have a high educational value will be allowed. f) Access to Internet Radio and other always-on connections such as screensaver applications, Instant Messenging clients, and weather applications such as Weather Bug will not be allowed. g) Illegal activities, including copyright or contract violations shall not be permitted on the Internet. Illegal software shall not be installed or used on district computers. Downloading of copyrighted music, movies, or other media through the Internet or use of file-sharing programs is strictly prohibited. h) The Internet shall not be used for commercial, political, illegal, or financial purposes. Violations shall be reported to a teacher or an administrator immediately. i) Threatening, profane, harassing, or abusive language shall be forbidden. j) Use of the network for any illegal activities is prohibited. Illegal activities include (a) tampering with computer hardware or software, (b) unauthorized entry into computers and files (hacking), (c) knowledgeable vandalism or destruction of equipment, and (d) deletion of computer files. Such activity is considered a crime under state and federal law. Any use which violates state or federal law relating to copyright, trade secrets, the distribution of obscene or pornographic materials, or which violates any other applicable law or municipal ordinance, is strictly prohibited. k) No user is permitted to knowingly or inadvertently load or create a computer virus or load any software that destroys files and programs, confuses users, or disrupts the performance of the system. No third party software will be installed without the consent of the assigned administrator. l) Invading the privacy of another user, using another's account, posting personal messages without the author's consent, and sending or posting anonymous messages shall be forbidden. m) Accessing pornographic or obscene materials, or using or sending profanity in messages shall be forbidden. n) Any subscription to list serves, bulletin boards, or on-line services shall be approved by the superintendent or his designee prior to any such usage. o) The use of anonymous proxies to get around content filtering is strictly prohibited and is a direct violation of this agreement. Internet Safety Parents and Users. Despite every effort for supervision and filtering, all users and their parents/guardians are advised that access to the electronic network may include the potential for access to materials inappropriate for school-aged students. Every user must take responsibility for his or her use of the network and Internet and avoid these sites. Personal Safety. In using the network and Internet, users should not reveal personal information such as home address or telephone number. Users should never arrange a face-to-face meeting with someone met on the Internet without a parents permission. Confidentiality of Student Information. Personally identifiable information concerning students may not be disclosed or used in any way on the Internet without the permission of a parent or guardian. Users should never give out private or confidential information about themselves or others on the Internet. Active Restriction Measures. The District will utilize filtering software or other technologies to prevent students from accessing visual depictions that are (1) obscene, (2) pornographic, or (3) harmful to minors. The use of anonymous proxies to get around the content filter is strictly prohibited and will be considered a violation of this policy. The school will also monitor the online activities of students, through direct observation and/or other technological means such as Internet usage reporting. Use of New Web Tools Online communication is critical to our students learning of 21st Century Skills and tools such as blogging and podcasting offer an authentic, real-world vehicle for student expression. Again, as educators, our primary responsibility to students is their safety. Hence, expectations for classroom blog, student protected e-mail, podcast projects or other Web interactive use must follow all established Internet safety guidelines. Blogging/Podcasting Terms and Conditions: The use of blogs, podcasts or other web 2.0 tools are considered an extension of your classroom. Therefore, any speech that is considered inappropriate in the classroom is also inappropriate in all uses of blogs, podcasts, or other web 2.0 tools. This includes but is not limited to profanity, racist, sexist or discriminatory remarks. Students using blogs, podcasts or other web tools are expected to act safely by keeping ALL personal information out of their posts. A student should NEVER post personal information on the web (including, but not limited to, last names, personal details including address or phone numbers, or photographs). Do not, under any circumstances, agree to meet someone you have met over the Internet. Any personal blog a student creates in class is directly linked to the class blog which is typically linked to the student profile, and therefore must follow these blogging guidelines. In addition to following the information above about not sharing too much personal information (in the profile or in any posts/comments made), students need to realize that anywhere they use that login it links back to the class blog. Therefore, anywhere that login is used (posting to a separate personal blog, commenting on someone else's blog, etc.), the account should be treated the same as a school blog and follow these guidelines. Comments made on blogs should be monitored and - if they are inappropriate deleted. Never link to web sites from your blog or blog comment without reading the entire article to make sure it is appropriate for a school setting. Students using such tools agree to not share their user name or password with anyone besides their teachers and parents and treat blog spaces as classroom spaces. Speech that is inappropriate for class is also inappropriate for a blog. Students who do not abide by these terms and conditions may lose their opportunity to take part in the project and/or be subject to consequences appropriate to misuse. Teacher Responsibilities Will provide developmentally appropriate guidance to students as they make use of telecommunications and electronic information resources to conduct research and other studies related to the district curriculum.

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All students will be informed of their rights and responsibilities as users of the district network prior to gaining access to that network, either as an individual user or as a member of a class or group. Use of networked resources will be in support of educational goals. Treat student infractions of the Acceptable Use Policy according to the school discipline policy. Provide alternate activities for students who do not have permission to use the internet.

Principal Responsibilities Include Acceptable Use Policy in student handbook. Be sure handbooks are distributed to all students. Treat student infractions of the Acceptable Use Policy according to the school discipline policy. Permission forms must be kept on file for one year. Students who do not have permission to use the internet must be identified to the teaching staff. District Responsibilities Ensure that filtering software is in use to block access to materials that are inappropriate, non-educational, offensive, obscene, consume large amounts of bandwidth, or contain pornography. Have acceptable use policy approved by the board and reviewed yearly.

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CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES Exclusion From and Readmission to School The law provides school districts with the power to exclude from work and school any student suffering from contagious or infectious diseases. Each staff member has the responsibility to observe students and notify the office/nurse of any student suspected of having an infectious or contagious disease. A student, who is absent, as a result of contagious or infectious diseases shall be excluded from attending school as indicated below: Disease ****** Chicken Pox Measles Mumps Scarlet Fever Lice Exclusion from School ******************* Sixth day after lesions first appeared as long as no new blisters are forming Clearance by physician Clearance by physician Fever free for 24 hours without fever reducing Medicines Properly treated with lice killing shampoo and all nits are removed. Must bring box top of lice killing shampoo Clearance by physician Clearance by physician Until proper treatment Until proper treatment 24 hours fever free without fever reducing Meds Clearance by physician Clearance by physician 24 hours after antibiotic treatment began

Hepatitis Pink Eye Ringworm Scabies Strep throat Mono Meningitis Impetigo/Staph boils

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TATE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT Grade________ Teacher____________________ STUDENT HEALTH RECORD YEAR ____________________ Male Female (Please complete: Information to be shared with teaching staff as needed.) Students Name: ______________________________________ Date of Birth: __________ Age: ______ Parent/Guardian/s: __________________________________ Home Ph.: _________________________ Address: ______________________________________ Cell Ph.: _____________ Work Ph.: __________ Medicaid No.: _____________________________ Health Ins. No.: ______________________________ Alternate Contact Names/Phone Numbers: 1. ______________________________ _________________ __________________ _____________ Name/Relationship home # work # cell # 2. ______________________________ _________________ __________________ _____________ Name/Relationship home # work # cell # 3. ______________________________ _________________ __________________ _____________ Name/Relationship home # work # cell # Does the student currently or had in the past year, any of the following conditions? YES NO Allergies / seasonal, food, environmental Hearing Loss / Correction (specify type & reaction below) Heart Condition / Murmur Bee / Insect Sting Allergy or Reaction Hepatitis ADHD / ADD Hernia Anemia (include Sickle Cell) Lead Arthritis Lung Disease / Tuberculosis Asthma (give details below) Measles Back / Neck Injury Medication Reaction / Allergy (list below) Bladder / Kidney Disease Mononucleosis Bleeding / Clotting Disorder Nosebleeds Cancer / Leukemia Orthopedic / Bone Chickenpox Psychological/Psychiatric (anxiety, depression) Convulsion/ Seizures Surgery Diabetes Speech Head Injury / Concussion Vision Loss / Correction Headaches Other (explain below) Please give the details to all marked YES ____________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________

YES

NO

Is the student taking daily medication? ____ No ____ Yes If yes, please list the medication, dose, times and reasons for taking: _________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ Describe any handicaps or special needs of student: _________________________________________________________________________________

I give my permission for my child to participate in the schools health program which includes health education and basic screenings (vision, hearing, scoliosis, etc.). I also give my permission for my child to receive standing orders/first aid care as needed. I give my consent for pertinent medical information to be shared between the medical provider and the school nurse and/or school personnel directly involved with my child at school. Parent/Guardian Signature___________________________________ Date____________________

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Student/Parent Agreement
(Statement of Assurance)
Each student has 2 weeks upon entering school to return this form. After the 2 week period, the student will remain in ISS until the form is returned with parental signatures.

This is to certify that we agree to the following conditions: (1) Have reviewed the entire contents of this handbook. (2) Agree to abide by the Acceptable Use Policy for Internet/e-mail network.
All active students, regardless of age, must read and sign below. I have read, understand, and agree to abide by the provisions of the attached Acceptable Use Policy of the Tate County School District ("School District"). All parents or legal guardians of students under 18 must read and sign below. As the parent or legal guardian of the above student, I have read, understand, and agree my child or dependent must comply with the provisions of

the attached Acceptable Use Policy of the Tate County School District ("School District"). I give full permission to the School District to give my child or dependent access to the Internet and network applications. I understand and agree in the event that a third party makes a claim against the School District as a result of my use of the computer network or the Internet provided by the School District, the School District reserves its right to respond to such a claim as it sees fit and to hold all offending parties, including myself, responsible. I release the School District, its affiliates, and its employees from any claims or damages of any nature arising from my access or use of the computer network or the Internet provided by the School District. I also agree not to hold the School District responsible for materials improperly acquired on the system or for violations of copyright restrictions, users' mistakes or negligence, or any costs incurred by users. This agreement shall be governed by and construed under the laws of the United States and the State of Mississippi.

(3) Have selected the web site consent form as shown below:
(Please mark). _______ The school site may use my childs picture on the school web site without liability to the school or Tate County School District. _______ The school site may NOT use my childs picture on the school web site. Sion 1 (Please mark). ______ The school site may use my childs name - either the first name or first name and last initial only e.g., John or John D. - on the school web site without liability to the school or Tate County School District. ______ The school site may NOT use my childs name - either the first name or first name and last initial only e.g., John or John D.on the school web site.

Student Signature _______________________________________Date: _____________ Parent or Guardian Signature ______________________________Date: ____________ Complete this form as directed, detach and return to your childs homeroom teacher.

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